Sociology Class Information
August 27, 2008
Sociology and Social Issues
“Why We Do What We Do”
In this class we will look at society and how it influences the behavior of the groups and individuals who live here. We will examine the effect roles and statuses have on the behavior of people, groups and institutions in our society. We will be looking at problems that exist in our society and how those problems are caused by and affect people, groups and institutions. Finally, we will look at inconsistencies and inequalities in our society that can and do cause social problems and are an inevitable bi-product of all societies and groups.
Requirements for this class:
1. Tests:
All tests tendered in this course must be taken to receive a grade in this class. Makeup tests should be taken within one week of the date of the original test day
2. Assignments:
Periodic projects, papers, research assignments, and group discussion assignments will be given. All assigned work must be completed to receive a grade. Late work is penalized 1 grade per day, up to a week. After a week, missing work becomes a “0” in the grade book.
3. Attendance:
The school’s attendance policy is endorsed in this class. Students absent for more than twelve, non-school related days will not be given credit for this class.
4. Participation/Discussion:
You will also be graded on your level of participation, cooperativeness, demeanor, classroom behavior, and willingness to work. This grade is purely objective, meaning it is on what I observe and judgments I make on your participation and behavior.
*Success in this class is a result of your efforts, not just your knowledge. Students who do poorly do so out of lack of effort, not lack of knowledge. Passing is your responsibility, not mine.
Grade Scale:
A: 100.0 - 94% A-: 93.99 - 91%B+: 90.99 - 88% B: 87.99 - 84% B-: 83.99 - 81%
C+: 80.99 - 78% C: 77.99 - 74% C-: 73.99 - 71%D+: 70.99 - 68% D: 67.99 - 64% D-: 63.99 - 60%
F: 59.99 - 0%
Sociology Units:
Unit 1: Culture and Socialization
• Sociological Perspective
• Types of Societies
• Components of Culture
• Roles and Statuses
• Socialization
Unit 2: Deviance and Crime In The U.S.
• Deviance
• Functions of Deviance
• Deviance and Diversity
• Crime
• Justice System
Unit 3: Social Inequality: America’s Social Classes
• Inequality in Society
• Stratification
• Class and Caste Systems
• U.S. Social Classes
• Class Dynamics
• Social Mobility
• Poverty
Unit 4: Families and Family Structures in the U.S.
• Groups
• Family Patterns
• U.S. Families
• Family Problems
• New Family Forms
Unit 5:Religion and Education In Society
• Types of Religions
• Major World Religions
• Religion in the U.S.
• Education in Society
• Educational Inequality
• Problems/Issues in Education
Classroom Rules and Student Expectations
Student Expectations:
1. Be on time.
2. Be productive.
3. Be respectful of other’s opinions and right to express their opinions.
4. Be cooperative with the teacher and the other people in this room.
5. Act in a mature manner.
6. Have all assignments in on time and completed to the best of your ability.
7. Be open-minded to other opinions and viewpoints.
8. Express your views or question others. Don’t be apathetic!!! (“This doesn’t apply to me…blah blah blah!!!”)
Classroom Rules:
1. Be on time and in your seat at the bell.
2. Respect the other students in this room:
• Let them work and study
• Let them speak and voice opinions
• Leave their property alone
3. Do not interrupt or disrupt Mr. Stigman, class activities, or other students.
4. No food, beverages (water is ok), cell phones, iPods , or other devices allowed in this classroom.
5. Be in your seats until you are dismissed.
6. When in doubt, use common sense.
